Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Amherst, United States, is crucial for safeguarding your skin from harmful sun exposure. With summer months bringing higher UV levels, awareness of these fluctuations can play a vital role in preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. In Amherst's semi-arid climate, where sunny days can often lead to elevated UV ratings—peaking at 12 during midday hours—it's essential to stay informed about daily UV exposure risks. By checking the UV Index regularly, you can enjoy the outdoors while taking the necessary precautions to protect your skin from the sun's damaging effects.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities. However, as the day progresses, the intensity of the sun quickly ramps up. By 10:00 AM, it reaches 4, and by 11:00 AM, it surges to 7. The peak occurs at 12:00 PM with a striking 10, signaling the need for sun protection. The UV exposure continues to escalate, hitting a maximum of 12 at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Thankfully, it gradually begins to decline after this peak, dropping to 6 by 5:00 PM and further to 2 by 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of taking precautions during the midday hours when UV levels pose the greatest risk.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, with peak levels occurring during the summer months. January starts with a moderate UV Index of 5, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. As the season progresses, February sees a rise to 7 (high) and a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The risk escalates dramatically in March with a very high index of 9 and a burn time of just 15 minutes. This trend continues into April and May, both classified as extreme at 11, where the burn time diminishes to 10 minutes. The peak months of June, July, and August maintain a 12 (extreme) rating, necessitating frequent protection as exposure can lead to quick burns. In September and October, the index remains high at 10 and 8 (very high), respectively, with burn times returning to 15 minutes. November reduces to 6 (high) with a burn time of 25 minutes, finally tapering off in December to a moderate 4 and a safe burn time of 30 minutes. Residents and visitors should exercise caution, especially from March through October, utilizing sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to safeguard against harmful UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Brooklyn UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| New York City UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Los Angeles UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Amherst | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |